Abstract
This study examines the effects of bride wealth transformation on marital stability among the Bukusu community in western Kenya. Bride wealth, a traditional practice involving the transfer of gifts from the groom's family to the bride's family, has undergone significant changes due to factors such as modernization, urbanization, and changing socio-economic conditions. The commercialization of bride wealth, characterized by high financial demands and a focus on material goods, has raised concerns about its impact on marital relationships. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, this study aims to investigate the consequences of bride wealth transformation on various aspects of marital stability, including the occurrence of separation and divorce, domestic violence, women's reproductive and property ownership rights, and the prevalence of cohabitation. The study employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions, to gather data from a sample of 200 married individuals in Bungoma County. The findings indicate that the commercialization of bride wealth has contributed to financial strain, marital conflicts, and power imbalances within marriages. The study reveals a significant relationship between bride wealth transformation and increased instances of separation, divorce, and domestic violence. Furthermore, women's reproductive and property ownership rights have been compromised, limiting their autonomy and well-being. The study also highlights the declining marriage rates and increased cohabitation among the Bukusu, with potential implications for family stability and child well-being. The findings underscore the need for community sensitization, policy interventions, economic empowerment programs, and support services to address the negative consequences of bride wealth transformation and promote healthy, equitable marriages among the Bukusu community.
Keywords
Bride Wealth, Marital Stability, Bukusu Community
Citations
IRE Journals:
Anne Nekesa Wepukhulu
"Effects of the Transformation of Bride Wealth on Stability in Marriage Among the Bukusu" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 7 Issue 11 2024 Page 573-578
IEEE:
Anne Nekesa Wepukhulu
"Effects of the Transformation of Bride Wealth on Stability in Marriage Among the Bukusu" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 7(11)
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